Scotland coach Steven Reid has provided an update on Ryan Christie, and has revealed that he’s still down after his Livi madness.
Christie was red-carded for a high, studs-up challenge on Scott Robinson. It was a surreal moment considering it was so unlike the Celtic man. In the end, the result made the moment more painful as we went on to lose 2-0.
Next up for the Celtic star, however, is an international double-header against Russia and San Marino respectively. He has a massive job to do for his country before trying to get things back on track at Parkhead.
But Reid, speaking in the Daily Record, has revealed that his mood is still negative after the set-back.
“We spoke briefly last night, obviously he is flat after the result and the red card. I have been there myself, been sent off many times so I have that ability to relate to that.
“But in a strange way he will be wanting to get back on the pitch as soon as possible, not to make up for it but to show what he can do, hopefully get rid of that disappointment and put in a couple of decent performances if he gets the opportunity.
“He has been outstanding this season, his form has been brilliant. It was an out-of-character challenge, I am sure he will be wanting to make up for it with club and country as soon as possible.”
International performances could be good for Christie
It’s great for Christie that he has two massive matches so soon after his red card. Going away with Scotland with such international support around him will hopefully help boost his confidence.
It was a moment of madness. Fans are entitled to criticise when players make key errors that cost them dearly. However, it has to stop at criticism and not step over the line and into the realms of abuse. Christie’s decision to leave Twitter has changed the complexion of how serious the reaction has been to his sending off.
But he’ll be absolutely itching to perform for his country in Russia. It’s also vital that we as fans remember just how much he puts into our football club on a weekly-basis.
Short memories
Only four nights ago, we were all bigging him up after a superb display against Cluj. With so many games in a season, there are going to be matches where Christie makes mistakes. You could also tell as soon as he was sent off that he couldn’t believe what he had just done.
Christie is like every single one of us. He’s so determined for this football club to be successful. None of us can relate to being on the pitch for Celtic. We don’t know how easy it is to see the red mist and go over-the-top. It’s Christie’s first ever red card with the club he supports. He’ll be devastated, especially as it led to Rangers leapfrogging us in the table.
However, once Scotland kick-off in Russia on Thursday night, his mind will be 100% on putting in some positive international performances. Hopefully, he does just that and comes back a more confident player.
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